Gerrard returned to training with the rest of the squad at Melwood yesterday but was not involved with the main group of players.

'Steven and the medical team have done fantastically well so far and they are in the final stages of getting him back to full training,' said manager Kenny Dalglish.

'I'm sure there will be supporters disappointed that Steven is unable to be with us in Asia, but I'm sure the same people will appreciate the importance of Steven giving himself the best possible opportunity of being fit to play against Sunderland on the opening day of the new campaign.

'Steven continuing his rehabilitation programme at Melwood is in everybody's long term interests.'

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